Member Article

Coalfield appointments support PEAT project in Airedale

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust, the only organisation dedicated to supporting the 5.7 million people living in former mining communities throughout the UK, has made two new appointments to support a community-led partnership with Wakefield Council.

Dedicating to improving the employment, skills and health and wellbeing of local residents in Airedale, West Yorkshire, the PEAT (People Enabling Area Transformation) funded project will take a bespoke approach, providing support, advice and guidance to individuals that need help.

As the new Community Employment & Skills Coach, Jenny Lindley has been appointed to provide flexible and personalised employment coaching, helping people to improve their confidence, learn new skills and develop their strengths in order to capitalise on employment opportunities.

Calling upon her previous experience as Employability Tutor for RNN group, Jenny will assist with all aspects of the job seeking process, including creating a winning CV, job search techniques, support with interview skills and provide training opportunities.

Taking on the position of Health and Wellbeing Activator, Lindsey Best-Fryer will offer support to residents that want to overcome social barriers and improve their health and wellbeing.

As part of the Communities Active team, under the banner of Airedale Active, Lindsey will also help to increase the number of health and wellbeing activities locally and will work in partnership with the Yorkshire Sport Foundation to support local groups to develop new community sport and physical activity projects through the Airedale Active Grants Scheme.

Kat Clarke, Development Manager – Game On England, comments: “Meeting the needs of local residents and the wider coalfield communities is central to what we do. This project can inspire people living in Airedale to create a better future for generations to come.

“Times have been very challenging as once again our neighbourhoods have been disproportionately impacted. However, our tailored approach and unique offer which combines health and wellbeing provision along with employment and skills support under one service, means we can adapt to people’s circumstances and meet individual needs.

“Bringing Jenny and Lindsey onboard will only enhance this service even further. We understand Airedale, as with many coalfield communities’, still face many challenges in regards to employment, skills and health and wellbeing. We now feel we have the personnel and resources in place to make a lasting impact.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Nick Hill .